When should you pitch your tent? Or when is it better to opt for lodging? When should you visit to avoid the crowds? Let’s have a look!
We plotted the number of nights spent per month in each park. We separated four categories of accommodation: lodging, RV, tent, and backcountry. Each accommodation type comes with their own characteristics which determine their popularity over time.
A word of caution, parks don’t have the same infrastructure. Some parks, such as Denali National Park, don't have any lodging; and we know all too well that campsites are in limited supply in all National Parks.
Mountainous parks are known for their snowy winters. Only lodges provide the appropriate shelter during the cold season. They are great camping destination once the snow melts from late spring to early fall.
You will notice a peak of frequentation in the Appalachian Mountains in October when leaves turn yellow.
These parks are similar to mountainous parks but with much more severe winters. Temperature only exceeds 50°F for 2–3 months in summer.
They are all situated in remote parts of Alaska, which contributes to the low frequentation.
Desertic parks feature very hot summers and surprisingly cold winters. Deserts have two high seasons, in spring and in fall, when temperatures are optimal.
Lodges equipped with air conditioning attract tourists even during the warmest months.
The best time of the year to visit parks in tropical climates is during the dry season. Temperature tends to stay constant year-round, but wet season sees storms and heavy rain.
Parks along the coast have relatively constant temperature and weather. They can be visited any time of the year.
Somewhat of a catch-all category. Parks in the Midwest region have harsh winters and warm summers. Parks closer to Canada feature long winters with abundant snowfalls.